Alabama News

General News

General

New ID reality special ‘In Dispute: Lively v Baldoni’: How to watch, where to stream free

The brand new reality special In Dispute: Lively v Baldoni premieres on Investigation Discovery Monday, March 31 at 8/7c.

The latest ID special examines the legal complaint brought against Justin Baldoni by Blake Lively, alleging he engaged in sexual misconduct on the set of his film, It Ends With Us. The complaint also alleges Baldoni hired a PR firm to engage in an online smear campaign against Lively to keep her quiet.

Since the complaint was filed, Baldoni has responded by not only denying the allegations, but also issued his own $400 million-dollar countersuit, accusing Lively of defamation.

With the trial set for March 2026, the special examines the evidence on both sides and the response to the dispute on social media.

Where can I watch In Dispute: Lovely v Baldoni?

Those interested in taking a deep dive into the ongoing legal battle between the It Ends With Us costars can stream the new reality special through Philo or DirecTV Stream—both of which have free trials set up for new subscribers. Out of the two, Philo is the cheaper option at just $28 a month after its free trial.

The new ID special is also available for streaming through Sling, and although there is no free trial available, Sling is offering new users half off their first month with a new subscription.

What is Philo?

Philo is considered one of the cheapest streaming platforms on the market. At just $28 a month after its 7-day free trial concludes, Philo subscribers can access over 70 top TV channels such as MTV, BET, Investigation Discovery, A&E, AMC, CMT and more.

Known as one of the best entertainment-focused streaming services, Philo has an extensive collection of hit TV shows and movies to stream. Along with an overflowing library of content, Philo sports enticing add-ons such as STARZ, AMC+, MGM+, Hallmark+ and more to help subscribers further tailor their flow of content.

Philo users can even record favorite content to stream at a later date through Philo’s unlimited DVR feature.

What is DirecTV Stream?

Much like Philo, DirecTV Stream offers subscribers with a plethora of live TV channels and helpful features, too. The Entertainment package, also known as DirecTV Stream’s base package, starts at just $86.99 a month after its 5-day free trial and includes popular TV channels such as HGTV, ESPN, Bravo, CMT, CNBC, BET, CNN and more.

Two other DirecTV Stream packages are the Choice package (original price $114.99) and the Ultimate package (original price $129.99), both of which are part of an ongoing promotion that offers new subscribers $25 off the original price for the first three months of their subscription.

DirecTV Stream has also recently introduced a lineup of genre packs, which allow subscribers to choose their favorite viewing options based on what genre they watch the most. Whether it’s MySports, MyEntertainment, MyNews or MiEspañol, users can get the channels and content they want without the worry of filler channel overload. Genre packs start at just $34.99 a month.

Those interested in comparing all DirecTV Stream’s channel packages and genre packs can check them out here.

What is Sling?

Sling is another streaming service to consider if you want to stream live TV channels like Investigation Discovery. Though no free trial is available to new subscribers, those interested in committing to a paid plan get half off the first month.

Both the Sling Orange plan and the Sling Blue plan are normally $45.99 a month, but with the current promotion, Sling users will pay just $23 a month for the first month.

For those who wish to access channels from both the Sling Blue and Sling Orange plans can do so by signing up for the Orange + Blue plan, which combines the best of both plans for just $60.99 a month ($30.50 for the first month).

General

Donald Trump job approval rating: Once his strong suit, poll shows he is struggling on this key issue

Cracks may be forming on the issue once believed to be Donald Trump’s greatest strength, according to a poll released Monday measuring the president’s approval rating.

About 4 in 10 U.S. adults approve of Trump’s job performance, according to the new Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll.

In every issue surveyed in the poll, ranging from immigration to managing the federal government to the war in Ukraine, Americans have a more unfavorable view toward Trump’s handling of it than those with a favorable opinion.

The poll showed Trump’s job approval the greatest on immigration — an issue the president connected with the American people on that helped him recapture the White House in 2024.

The survey found 49% of respondents strongly or somewhat approve of how Trump is handling immigration compared to 50% who strongly or somewhat disapprove of his immigration policies.

The economy, which along with immigration helped propel Trump back into the White House, is now one of Trump’s weakest issues, the poll found.

Just 40% of respondents strongly or somewhat approve of the president’s handling of the economy compared to 58% who strongly or somewhat disapprove.

Trump fated the worst on an issue an issue that ties into the economy: trade negotiations with other countries.

Just 38% of respondents strongly or somewhat approve of the president’s stance on that issue while 60% of those polled strongly or somewhat disapprove.

Trump’s numbers on the economy pale in comparison to how Americans used to view him.

During his first term, the economy was an issue on which Americans frequently gave Trump good marks.

In October 2020, just before he lost reelection, an AP-NORC poll found that about half of U.S. adults approved of Trump’s handling of the economy, putting the rating far above his performance on race relations and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now, Trump’s stewardship of the economy is being put to the test again — and the AP-NORC poll isn’t the only sign that his threats of tariffs are making everyday Americans nervous.

Consumer confidence has been falling over the past few months. Trump has argued that tariffs would bring more jobs in the auto industry to the U.S. and narrow the budget deficit, but prices on imported cars could also rise steeply if some of the costs of the taxes are passed along to consumers.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

General

Dollar Tree says it’s attracting more of certain types of shoppers

Dollar Tree says more middle and high-income shoppers are coming through its doors.

That sign, reports The Wall Street Journal, may indicate that consumers are turning to the discount retailer due to economic concerns.

Despite recently announcing the sale of Family Dollar for a fraction of what it paid for the chain 10 years ago – WSJ reports the retailer remained upbeat about its economic forecast and the potential impact of upcoming tariffs.

According to a report from the U.S. Sun, Dollar Tree CEO Michael Creedon says there is “still a great deal of uncertainty” regarding how the tariffs will impact the company. However, Creedon said one potential strategy to offset the tariffs is to address Dollar Tree’s multi-price plan.

In 2024, Dollar Tree added 300 items priced between $1.50 and $7 in more than 3,000 stores.

“In terms of the different price points, we look at that value,” explained the Creedon, according to the U.S. Sun. “We look at convenience and we look at discovery and we say where can we offer that and maybe move on some pricing as part of not just tariffs, but an inflationary cost environment that we’ve got to mitigate.”

General

Pea-sized hail expected with thunderstorms to hit Cleburne County Monday – winds gusting up to 40 mph

A report was issued from the National Weather Service on Monday at 9:51 a.m. for strong thunderstorms until 10:30 a.m. for Cleburne County.

The storms are packing wind gusts of up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail (0.25 inches).

“At 9:51 a.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm over Fort McClellan, moving east at 45 mph,” states the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Hollis Crossroads, Muscadine, Abernathy, Sweetwater Lake, Coleman Lake And Campground, Edwardsville, Trickem, Lake Cleburne, Heflin, I 20 Welcome Center, Liberty Hill, Chalafinnee, Oak Level, Ranburne, Fruithurst, Borden Springs, Mars Hills and Camp Sequoyah.

The weather service states, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until noon for northeastern and east central Alabama.”

Staying safe as lightning approaches: Expert advice

Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.

To guarantee your safety in the midst of a thunderstorm, take into account the following recommendations:

Lightning safety plan:

When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
Stay vigilant by monitoring the sky for ominous signs and listening for the telltale sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s a clear indication of nearby lightning.
Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

Once you’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.

Wait for the all-clear:

After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

Rain can turn roads into hazards. Stay informed and follow these tips from the weather service to ensure safety during heavy rainfall:

Beware of rapid water flow:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.

Reduce speed and drive cautiously:

If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.

If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

Flood warning for Madison County until Monday afternoon due to prolonged rain

At 9:43 a.m. on Monday, the National Weather Service released a flood warning in effect until 1 p.m. for Madison County.

The weather service adds, “Urban area and small stream flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected for Madison county.”

“Flooding of Indian Creek and adjacent land areas is imminent or occurring,” states the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

Your guide to weather alerts: advisories, watches, and warnings

Flash flood warning: Take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it’s crucial to move immediately to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden and violent inundation that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas not currently experiencing rainfall.

Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

Flood advisory: Be aware:

A flood advisory is released when flooding is not expected to reach a severity level necessitating a warning. Nonetheless, it can still cause considerable inconvenience and, without exercising caution, potentially lead to situations that threaten life and/or property.

Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.

Staying safe during a flood: Recommendations from the weather service

In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Seek higher ground:

If you’re in a flood-prone area, or if you’re camping in a low-lying spot, move to higher ground as a first step.

Follow evacuation orders:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it promptly. Prior to leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time allows, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid basements and submerged areas:

Steer clear of basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

Swift evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.

Stay away from floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.

Seek high ground if trapped:

Should you become trapped by moving water, reach the highest point possible and dial 911 to contact emergency services.

During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the weather service. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain

Rain can turn roads into hazards. Stay informed and follow these tips from the weather service to ensure safety during heavy rainfall:

Beware of swollen waterways:

In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

Maintain safe driving distances:

The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.

Reduce speed and drive cautiously:

On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Prioritize visibility:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.
When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

Big change is coming to the way you order at Zaxby’s

Zaxby’s is modernizing its drive-through.

Southern-based chicken fast food chain plans to incorporate Berry AI’s Camera Timers to drive-through operations across its entire brand.

“As our drive-thru operations evolve and we look to the future for our brand, we are excited to leverage AI with camera timers in partnership with Berry AI,” said Sharlene Smith, the COO of Zaxbys, in a press release. “This state of the art technology will help us better understand and improve the drive-thru experience for our customers in a way traditional loop timers have been limited.”

Taco Bell also plans to incorporate A.I. into its ordering system. This month, Yum Brands – the parent company of Taco Bell – announced its partnership with computing and software company Nvidia to bring a range of A.I. services to its portfolio of restaurants.

General

Jackson County under a flood warning Monday midday triggered by significant rain

On Monday at 9:32 a.m. a flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service in effect until 11:30 a.m. for Jackson County.

The weather service comments, “Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected for Jackson county.”

“Flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations is imminent or occurring,” describes the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

Deciphering advisories, watches, and warnings: Understanding weather alerts

Flash flood warning: Take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is declared when flooding is on the verge of happening or is already underway.

Flood advisory: Be aware:

Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.

Keeping safe during floods: Expert advice from the weather service

In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Move to higher ground:

If you’re in a flood-prone area, or if you’re camping in a low-lying spot, move to higher ground as a first step.

Follow evacuation orders:

When local authorities issue an evacuation order, promptly comply. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid basements and submerged areas:

Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Swift evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be charged with electricity.

Stay away from floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.

Seek higher ground when trapped:

Should you become trapped by moving water, reach the highest point possible and dial 911 to contact emergency services.

When heavy rain occurs, there is a potential for flooding, particularly in areas that are low-lying or prone to floods. It is crucial to never drive through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can carry away most vehicles. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads

When heavy rain sets in, the risk of flooding and hazardous driving conditions rises. Whether it’s prolonged rainfall or rapid runoff, being prepared is essential. Here are some valuable safety tips from the weather service to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of rapid water flow:

In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Reduce speed and drive cautiously:

On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.
When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

Flood warning issued for Franklin and Lawrence counties until Monday midday triggered by heavy rain

On Monday at 9:27 a.m. a flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service in effect until 11:30 a.m. for Franklin and Lawrence counties.

The weather service says, “Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected for Franklin AL and Lawrence counties.”

“Flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations is imminent or occurring,” states the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

Understanding the differences between advisories, watches, and warnings

Flash flood warning: Take action!

Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is declared when flooding is on the verge of happening or is already underway.

Flood advisory: Be aware:

Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.

Weathering the storm: Flood safety guidelines from the weather service

Floods can pose a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or find yourself camping in a low-lying region. To ensure your safety, the weather service offers essential flood safety guidelines:

Move to higher ground:

If you reside in a flood-prone region or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is relocating to higher ground.

Follow evacuation orders:

When local authorities issue an evacuation order, promptly comply. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid basements and submerged areas:

Steer clear of basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

Evacuate promptly for safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.

Refrain from walking in floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.

Seek higher ground when trapped:

In the event you become trapped by moving water, make your way to the highest point available and contact emergency services by calling 911.

During periods of heavy rainfall, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas, the risk of flooding escalates. Remember this crucial advice: never attempt to drive through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can carry away most vehicles. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:

Beware of swollen waterways:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Slow down and stay cautious:

On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.

Prioritize visibility:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.
When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

Update: Prepare for strong thunderstorms in Elmore and Montgomery counties Monday morning – gusts to hit 50 mph

An updated weather alert was issued by the National Weather Service on Monday at 10 a.m. for strong thunderstorms until 10:45 a.m. for Elmore and Montgomery counties.

The storms could bring wind gusts of up to 50 mph and penny-sized hail (0.75 inches).

“At 9:59 a.m., Doppler radar tracked strong thunderstorms along a line extending from Verbena to near Lowndesboro to 6 miles northwest of Greenville. Movement was east at 55 mph,” according to the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Hyundai Motors Of Alabama, Santuck, Auburn University In Montgomery, Millbrook, Dublin, Central, Titus, Woodcrest, Wallsboro, Snowdoun, Currys, Sellers, Ten Cedar Estates, Ramer, Waugh, Dexter, Lagoon Park, Hunter, Alabama State University and Montgomery.

The weather service comments, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until noon for central, south central, southeastern and east central Alabama.”

Shielding yourself from approaching lightning: Expert safety guidelines

Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.

To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, keep these recommendations in mind:

Lightning safety plan:

When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.

Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads

Rain can turn roads into hazards. Stay informed and follow these tips from the weather service to ensure safety during heavy rainfall:

Beware of rapid water flow:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Reduce speed and drive cautiously:

On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

Visibility matters:

Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.

Watch out for slippery roads:

Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.

When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

General

University of Minnesota grad student detained by ICE days after Alabama student

Officials in Minnesota are seeking answers in the case of a University of Minnesota graduate student who’s being detained by U.S. immigration authorities for unknown reasons.

University leadership said Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained the student Thursday at an off-campus residence. Officials said the school was not given advance notice about the detention and did not share information with federal authorities. The student’s name and nationality have not been released.

As the case remained largely a mystery, state and local leaders called on federal authorities to explain their actions.

“My office and I are doing all we can to get information about this concerning case,” Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar said in a post on the social media site X. “We’re in contact with the University and understand they had no prior warning or information that led to this detainment.”

She said that international students are “a major part of the fabric of life in the school and our community.”

The detained student is enrolled in business school at the university’s Twin Cities campus. University officials said the school is providing the student with legal aid and other support services.

The university’s graduate labor union organized a protest Saturday outside the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office in downtown Minneapolis. Organizers said they stood in solidarity with international students facing uncertain futures as the new Trump administration pursues an immigration crackdown that has targeted people with ties to American colleges and universities.

“An increasing number of international students are being detained without due process across the country,” leaders of the University of Minnesota Graduate Labor Union-United Electrical Local 1105 said in a statement. “These constitutional violations are part of a larger plan to continue stripping our rights away from us, starting with immigrants. It will not stop there.”

The Minnesota case comes days after Alireza Doroudi, an Iranian-born University of Alabama graduate student, was taken by ICE from his Tuscaloosa apartment around 3 a.m. Tuesday.

“ICE HSI made this arrest in accordance with the State Department’s revocation of Doroudi’s student visa. This individual posed significant national security concerns,” a DHS spokesperson said.

Doroudi’s attorney, David Rozas, said in a statement to AL.com he was unaware “of any allegations concerning significant national security issues.”

“He has not been arrested for any crime, nor has he participated in any anti-government protests,” the statement from Rozas said.

The Trump administration has cited a seldom-invoked statute authorizing the secretary of state to revoke visas of noncitizens who could be considered a threat to foreign policy interests. More than half a dozen people are known to have been taken into custody or deported in recent weeks. Most of the detainees have shown support for Palestinian causes during campus protests over the war in Gaza last year.

“An attack on one of us is an attack on all of us,” the union’s president, Abaki Beck, said in a statement.

What prompted authorities to detain the University of Minnesota student is still unknown. ICE officials have not responded to an Associated Press email requesting comment.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said on X that he is in touch with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

“The University of Minnesota is an international destination for education and research,” Walz wrote. “We have any number of students studying here with visas, and we need answers.”

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also called the case “deeply troubling.”

“Educational environments must be places where all students can focus on learning and growing without fear,” he wrote on X.

Officials promised to release more information about the case once they have updates.

“International students are huge assets to the University of Minnesota,” U.S. Sen. Tina Smith of Minnesota said in a Facebook post. “They move thousands of miles away from their families and support systems to learn from the best and the brightest. I can’t imagine how terrified they are after learning ICE has detained one of their classmates.”

AL.com contributed to this report.